Are you interested in How to Update Your Xbox Wireless Controller Firmware? The software that powers a controller is probably the last thing that hits you when you think of a controller. Even if your console gets a constant update, you might not remember updating the controller’s firmware.
Maintaining the code that makes your controllers run up to date is quite important. Firmware updates do not come out often, but when they do, they usually carry some important compatibility updates and bug fixes.
Xbox Wireless Controller Firmware
If you are experiencing some issues with your controller, the device’s firmware should be one of the very first things you should check out. As games and the console gates new features, the controller’s firmware would probably change in response. Browsing at the controller section of the accessories menu can turn out to be an easy way for you to check if everything is updated properly.
If you are already due for an update or two, I would let you know. If your controller is as updated as it needs to get, you should see a clear indication that you are not required to do anything. It is best you check the firmware for updates every week. Each of the controllers that you own and make use of needs to be updated individually, so get prepared to get this done a few times.
How to Update Your Xbox Wireless Controller Firmware
Below, I have put together some methods that can be helpful in updating your Xbox Controller’s firmware. These methods are great, just follow them and in no time your Firmware would be updated.
Update your Xbox Controller Wirelessly
One of the easiest ways to have your controller updated is by doing it wirelessly. Every Xbox controller side from the original version of the wireless controller is capable of updating wirelessly. You are expected to make sure that your controller’s batteries are fresh, or it carries a full charge, before attempting to update the firmware.
- In other to check for and install a firmware update, you would be required to head to the controller section of the accessories menu.
- Push on the Xbox button found on your controller, select “Profile and system > settings > devices and connections > Accessories > then the controller you would like to have updated.
- Select the three dots (…) and this should let you know what firmware version of your controller is running on, and if a new version of the firmware is available an “update” button should be displayed.
- When you find the button, select it, and this should update your controller.
Also, you can update your controller’s stereo headset while you are making the update wirelessly. In other to update the headset, plug it right in the console is switched it off, or after the update has commenced. It may stop the auto-detect feature from working well and lead to your headset not updating properly.
Update the Controller with a PC
If you do not own an Xbox, but would like to make use of the controllers when gaming on other devices like a PC, laptop or tablet, your firmware can still be updated. Installing a controller firmware update using a PC or tablet is quite straightforward.
You should be able to carry out the update using the Xbox Accessories app, and it only works on windows 10 or 11. So Linux fans and Mac users might need to look for a windows PC to get it updated. The app is free, and it is available from the Microsoft store, so you would need to install it first to begin the process. Once you have installed it, open it up and then grab your controller.
- First, connect your controller. PC users connect to get their controllers updated via Bluetooth, so a wired USB connection or use of the Xbox Wireless Adapter for windows would be needed.
- Once you connect your controller, you should get a popup if a mandatory update is available.
- From this point on, follow the onscreen instructions in other to have your controller updated.
If you are using a controller on the console, but find updating it on the PC to be easier, you can use this method instead of having to update it on your console.
FAQ
Should I Update Xbox One Controller Firmware?
Keeping your controller updated with the latest software maximizes your controller’s capabilities and compatibility. You can update your controller wirelessly or make use of a USB connection.
How do I Update my Xbox Firmware?
You would need to make sure that the console is connected to the internet, then press the Xbox button to open the guide and then select “Profile and system (your account icon)” > Settings. Select system > updates and downloads > update console.
Why Can’t I Update my Xbox Controller?
If you are still having issues with updating your controller, try making use of a different USB cable, and make sure that it is connected firmly to the Console’s USB port and the controller’s micro-USB or USB-C port.
What Does Xbox Controller Firmware do?
With a firmware update that started rolling out in September 2021, controllers that have Bluetooth are able to pair with devices that are using both wireless protocols, allowing those controllers to switch connections by double-tapping the pairing button.
